News - Mike Tomlin's legacy faces fresh critique amid the Steelers' resurgence.

The call for Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin's dismissal hit a fever pitch after a lackluster performance against the Buffalo Bills. Yet, demonstrating his resilience, Tomlin steered the Steelers through the turbulence to maintain his unblemished record of non-losing seasons, an unprecedented accomplishment in the NFL's competitive environment. This achievement highlights Tomlin's remarkable ability to keep his team relevant in a league where coaching tenures are often cut short. Despite his record, Tomlin faces criticism due to Pittsburgh's prolonged playoff drought, having last tasted postseason victory in 2016. Fans, weighed down by rising expectations, have grown restless. The sustained regular-season success no longer suffices; playoff triumphs have become the new benchmark. As the 2025 season progresses with Pittsburgh sitting at 9-6, Tomlin is challenged to deliver, particularly with the spotlight on a potential deep playoff run now that veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers leads the charge. Amid the fervor, former coach Tony Dungy stepped into the fray, defending Tomlin against detractors. Following a convincing win against the Detroit Lions, Dungy questioned Pittsburgh's fans' zeal to replace Tomlin, considering the team's recent uptick in performance. These sentiments sparked further debate across Steeler Nation, highlighting the divided perspectives on Tomlin's long-standing tenure. This season, the Steelers have demonstrated potential for reversing their postseason fortune. Even as they navigate the transition to a new quarterback, Tomlin's leadership is evident. The combination of Aaron Rodgers' prowess and Kenneth Gainwell's offensive contributions, along with a staunch defense bolstering the team's efforts, underscores Pittsburgh's ascent as a formidable force. The momentum gathered in these closing weeks could position them as a formidable contender in the playoffs, challenging for a spot nobody anticipated. For Tomlin, the stakes are higher than ever. A playoff victory in the upcoming games could solidify his legacy and silence critics, offering a renewed narrative of success in Pittsburgh's storied franchise history. The NFL's unforgiving nature means every moment counts, and Tomlin’s future could hinge on the Steelers' ability to capitalize on their current momentum.